Upcoming Chapter Events
Upcoming Chapter Events
Apra Michigan Virtual Book Tour: The Art and Science Approach to Fundraising Data and Research
Wednesday October 14, 2026 1:00-2:00PM EDT
This session brings together practical advice and candid stories from Stephanie’s work across the fundraising landscape. Stephanie will unpack the ideas that shaped her book and share her favorite strategies for navigating database selection or migration, prospect research, and data-driven fundraising. Whether you work in a small shop or a large advancement office, Stephanie will highlight essential skills every professional should master as well as core concepts for anyone working in fundraising. The session includes an interactive Ask the Author Anything Q&A, giving you space to dig into real questions that surface in your daily work.
Stephanie Willis is a seasoned philanthropy strategist and data-driven fundraising leader with nearly 15 years of experience guiding nonprofit organizations toward greater impact. As a database consultant at Creative Fundraising Advisors, Stephanie's main responsibilities include leading and supporting client engagements focused on data audits, database strategy, and best practices. A Gallup-Certified Strengths Educator since 2010, Stephanie's thought leadership extends to speaking engagements, published articles, and mentorship programs. Stephanie is currently on the Apra Board of Directors and serves as the president of the Apra Foundation.
Here & There: Apra Networking around the Great Lakes
Wed, September 16, 2026, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (CDT)
Philanthropy teams can elevate their prospect development programs by applying a focused, data‑driven approach - even with limited time, staff, or budget. This session walks through how to move from data to insights to strategy to action using tools already available in most development offices. Participants will explore practical methods for prioritizing prospects and portfolios, building lightweight analytics, and partnering with frontline fundraisers to turn information into meaningful results. You will leave with a clear roadmap for maximizing impact while doing more with less.
Fri, September 11, 2026, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Grab a coffee and join us for an hour of relaxed conversation about three fun books with a fundraising or research twist!
This summer’s picks include:
Fundraising the Dead by Sheila Connolly
Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club by Diane Bergner
The Deserter’s Tale by Nathan Dylan Goodwin
Read one, two, or all three at your own pace and then come chat with fellow prospect development professionals in September.
October 5-6, 2026
Register for our exciting one- and a half-day in person conference, taking place at the gorgeous Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, PA.
We have an amazing lineup of presentations, a fun happy hour, and an adult bookfair planned!
Around the Nation
Do you have a presentation or webinar you want to test out on our audience?
Do you want some presentation experience?
Have you been struggling with a PD question or problem and you’d like some outside perspective?
Do you have a topic in mind that you would like to chat about to get your creative juices flowing?